Antique French Notre-Dame de Liesse Miniature Souvenir Book Pendant, Pilgrimage Charm, Circa 1900

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A wonderfully unusual antique French miniature souvenir book from the pilgrimage sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Liesse in northern France.

Made in silver-toned metal, the tiny book opens to reveal eight printed scenes associated with the sanctuary and the traditional legend of Notre-Dame de Liesse. These include Notre-Dame de Liesse, the Miraculous Fountain, the church, the sanctuary, Château de Marchais, the Miraculous Transport, the Baptism of Ismérie and the Miraculous Heaviness of the Statue.

The scenes relate to the medieval legend of three Christian knights imprisoned in Egypt and Ismérie, the daughter of their captor. After the miraculous appearance of an image of the Virgin, Ismérie helped the knights escape. They were miraculously transported to Picardy, where Ismérie converted to Christianity and was baptised. Their story became the foundation of the pilgrimage tradition at Notre-Dame de Liesse.

One outer cover is decorated with raised scrolling ornament and the word “Souvenir,” while the other has a charming raised floral bouquet tied with a ribbon. The miniature book retains its original hanging ring and may once have been worn as a pendant or attached to a rosary, bracelet or pilgrimage keepsake.

The clasp closes securely, and the tiny hinged pages open correctly.

The printed images show age-related darkening, rubbing, marks, small stains and wear around the edges. The silver-toned metal has surface wear and a naturally aged patina. These signs of age are entirely in keeping with an object of such tiny proportions that was intended to be carried. No hallmark has been found.

Closed measurements: 1 inch × ¾ inch (2.5 × 1.9 cm), excluding the hanging ring
Weight: 5.78 g
Material: Silver-toned base metal and printed paper
Origin: Notre-Dame de Liesse, France
Date: Circa 1900–1920